The impact of technology on the youth
There is no denying that technological advancements have added clarity and convenience to people’s lives to a magnificent extent. Children and youth have benefitted from informational and communication technologies the most. Their system of learning has been made more intriguing with the aid of technological devices.
However, the relentless use of these gadgets has made them vulnerable to the challenges associated with technological innovations. This article investigates the positive and negative influences of technology on the younger generation.
Positive effects
Innovations can drive youngsters to achievement and success. Its healthy influences on the youth are:
- Knowledge of the outer world
Online platforms and channels are the gateways to the outer world. News of events and incidents from various countries are circulated worldwide through the medium of informational technology. It enables the youth to stay abreast of the current happenings of the world, and the correct use of gadgets can transform the youth into knowledgeable people. - Helps with the academics
Online tutorial classes and videos give valuable assistance to students in their educational activities. Audio-visuals break the regular monotony of mainstream education and further help in higher retention of information in the brain. Even schools and colleges use interesting videos and pictures to engage the pupils in learning. - Facilitates socialization
Improved online communication channels have enabled the youth to communicate with their friends and families residing in other parts of the world. Technology has certainly expanded the scope of social networking. Youth can form online communities with people who have interests similar to theirs. Gradually, these groups get the power to get their voices heard for imperative social and political causes.
Negative influences
The menace of technology surfaces on media platforms every other day, so the youth must be alert to avert such perils. Some of the adversities are:
- Cybercrimes
Illegitimate activities such as hacking have plagued the virtual space. Information shared online can be hacked into by cyber terrorists, thereby endangering the privacy rights of people. Cyberbullying has also become an unpleasant practice on social media that can cause mental distress among young adults. - Addiction
Excessive addiction to technology is not desirable and promotes an unhealthy lifestyle. Students get distracted from their studies and spend maximum time on their computers and mobiles. They stay affixed on to their system’s screen by neglecting their work and responsibilities. This can even alter the personalities of youngsters by instilling isolation and aggression in them. - Health concerns
Inappropriate lifestyles lead to several health concerns in youngsters. Rampant use of electronic gadgets deteriorates the vision, and technological obsession has been found to be the primary cause of obesity in children and teenagers. In addition, constant use of devices can even cause repetitive stress and injury to the hand bones and muscles.
The benefits of technological innovations have been enormous and have revolutionized the lives of the modern generation. However, the negative repercussions are prominent, and these have raised concerns in society. Elders should educate teenagers on the pros and cons of this advancement, which can enlighten the youth, thereby minimizing adversities.